Have a Bump on Your Gums? Here’s What It Could Be

Have you noticed a small bump on your gums recently? While some issues that cause a bump to appear on the gums may not require immediate attention, others require a visit to the emergency dentist. It’s important to know how to tell the difference. Read on to learn more about a few different problems that could cause a bump to form on the gums and what you should do to have it treated.

Progressed Tooth Infection

If you feel a soft, warm bump on your gums that’s red, swollen, or causing pain that worsens when you lie down, you may be experiencing a tooth infection. Left untreated, this could result in the tooth falling out or having to get it extracted. If you’re quick to seek help from an oral health professional, you raise your chances of a successful treatment and being able to save the tooth.

Oral Cyst

Dental cysts can form on the gums and usually happen as a result of dead or impacted teeth. They can enlarge over time and don’t usually cause discomfort unless they’re infected. If the cyst gets big enough and puts too much pressure on the roots of your teeth, it can cause additional oral health problems in the future. Because of this, it’s wise to visit a dentist to have it looked at as soon as you can.

Oral Pyogenic Granuloma

A pyogenic granuloma is a small, raised, and blood-filled bump that can form on the gums. They are soft, painless, and have a deep red or purple color. Pyogenic granuloma also bleed easily, which can lead to an abnormally low number of peripheral red blood cells, or anemia. They can develop in response to localized irritation or trauma, and many healthcare professionals believe hormonal changes play a role in their development. Though treatment may not be needed and they may go away on their own, surgical removal may be necessary.

Oral Abnormality Due to Cancer

Red and white rough patches in the mouth, lumps on the gums, or sores that don’t heal within two weeks may all be signs of oral cancer. At your bi-annual dental checkups, your dentist will do an oral cancer screening to catch it in its early stages and administer treatment. But if you notice any of these signs in between your regular checkups, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment right away.

If you notice a bump on your gums, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible. If it’s being caused by something serious, early diagnosis and treatment is the key to successfully addressing the issue and maintaining good oral health.

About the Author

Stec & Stines Cosmetic & Family Dentistry provides their Grand Island patients with the best care possible in a safe, inviting environment. If you have any oral health concerns, such as a bump on the gums, they can diagnose the issue and administer safe, effective treatment to keep both your oral and overall health in good condition. Call them at (308) 382-4440 or visit their website to make an appointment or for more information on their service offerings.